Former Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon has died, his son has confirmed.

Several United Nations peacekeepers from the Philippines who were abducted by Syrian rebels said in videos posted online today that they are safe and sound.

Israeli leaders criticised the new Palestinian unity government today, saying the Hamas-Fatah coalition did not meet international conditions, including recognising the Jewish state’s right to exist.

DELEGATES to the world’s largest gathering of Islamic nations said yesterday that they expect to adopt a resolution welcoming the US-appointed Iraqi Governing Council but will also call for Iraq’s return to full independence and control over its oil.